LearnByDoing by Abhay Bhutada Foundation Transforming Science Education

In Pune, the "LearnByDoing" initiative is transforming the way science is taught in schools. With the support of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation and Sakar Eduskills, over 2,000 students from eight different schools are now experiencing science through practical, hands-on activities. The program focuses on providing STEM kits, enabling students to explore science outside of textbooks and traditional learning methods. This initiative is particularly important in rural areas, where access to modern learning resources is often limited.

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Abhay Bhutada - Founder of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation

A New Approach to Learning: Experiments Over Textbooks

The heart of the "LearnByDoing" program lies in its hands-on approach to education. Students are no longer confined to reading theories from books. Instead, they can directly engage with scientific concepts by conducting real experiments using STEM kits. This is especially valuable in rural regions where well-equipped science labs are scarce, offering students a chance to learn by doing rather than just listening or reading.

Support from the Abhay Bhutada Foundation

The Abhay Bhutada Foundation has been instrumental in providing resources and making the program successful. Thanks to the foundation, rural schools in areas like Bursewadi, Kelgaon, and Dhanore now have access to the necessary tools and materials for science education. These previously under-resourced schools now boast the capability to offer engaging, practical science experiences for their students.

Positive Student Feedback: Engaging with Science

The students' response to the STEM kits has been overwhelmingly positive. Teachers have noted that these interactive kits help students better understand complex scientific concepts. A Class 7 student shared their excitement after using a microscope for the first time, seeing microorganisms that they had only read about. Such hands-on learning experiences have sparked newfound interest in science, making it a subject many students now approach with enthusiasm.

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The Power of Hands-On Learning

Hands-on learning is proven to significantly boost comprehension and retention of information. Unlike passive learning techniques like lectures or textbook reading, students actively engage with the material, making the learning process more effective. It not only improves their grasp of scientific concepts but also encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork—skills that are valuable in many areas of life.

Bridging Educational Gaps

One of the most important outcomes of the "LearnByDoing" initiative is its ability to bridge the educational gap in rural communities. Many students in these areas have never had access to labs or interactive learning tools. However, with the distribution of STEM kits, these students are now on equal footing with their urban peers, getting the opportunity to experience science in a hands-on, meaningful way.

A Ripple Effect: Involving Families and Communities

The impact of the program goes beyond the students themselves. As children bring their newfound knowledge home, their parents are becoming more engaged in their education. This engagement has led to a stronger learning environment at home, where families actively support their children's academic progress. The enthusiasm sparked by the STEM kits is helping to create a culture of learning that extends into the community.

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Looking Ahead: A Growing Initiative

The "LearnByDoing" initiative has already had a significant impact on science education in Pune, and it shows no signs of slowing down. With continued support from Abhay Bhutada, the program is poised to reach even more students, continuing to inspire young learners and preparing them for future success in the field of science.